Standard Lab testing for cosmetic products for the EU Process

1. Stability Testing

This test is performed in order to indicate the stability of the cosmetic product under various conditions which are part of the product lifecycle, from manufacture to the end of its shelf life. This test is an evaluation of a product’s efficacy and safety over a period of time during transport and storage. The physical and chemical specifications of the product (such as pH, viscosity and color) as well as the compatibility of the packaging are evaluated during this test.

Based on these test results, our experts can calculate the “use-by date” (after opening) or shelf life of the product.

Complementary to the stability test, the compatibility test is performed on the final packaging and detects interactions between the product and its container.

The product is analyzed for three months under various conditions (light, temperature, etc. ).

2. Challenge Testing (Preservative Efficacy Testing)

This test is performed in order to evaluate the efficacy of preservatives in a cosmetic product. It’s analyzed under multiple pathogenic cultures and monitored after 7, 14 and 28 days. The goal is to detect a decrease in pathogens and therefore confirm the efficacy of the preservative(s).

The challenge test is performed using five groups of microorganisms: Escherichia coli (bacteria gram -), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (bacteria gram -), Staphylococcus aureus (bacteria gram +), Candida albicans (yeast), Aspergillus niger (mold, facultative).

3. Microbiological quality testing

The microbiology analysis will check the absence of contamination during the production phase. A microbiology tests will count following microorganisms:

• Total aerobic microorganisms
• Yeast and Mold

Other Lab testing for cosmetic products

1. Efficacy tests

The main purpose of an efficacy test is to allow for a claims substantiation.
Examples: moisturizing, waterproof, etc.

2. Human Repeat Insult Patch Test

The patch test, or skin irritation test, is conducted under supervision of a dermatologist and allows a cosmetics brand to claim a product as “dermatologically tested”.

3. Sun Protection Factor Tests

This test, performed in vitro, evaluates the SPF value of sunscreen products by measuring the minimum product dose on protected skin and comparing it to the value of the minimum dose on unprotected skin.

4. Eye irritation test

This test determines the risk of eye irritation from a cosmetic product or ingredient.

5. Allergen Testing

This test is a quantitative analysis of the 26 Allergens for Cosmetic Labeling in Fragrance Raw Materials and Perfume Oils.